Authors

Alfredo Serrano Ruiz

Position

Diplomado en Enfermería.

Contact address

Servicio de Farmacología Clínica, Hospital Puerta de Hierro. C/ San Martín de Porres, 4.

Contact email: aserrano.hpth@salud.madrid.org

Abstract

Crataegus is one of the most known and broadly used plants both in west and eastern countries. The therapeutic effects of the compounds derived from the crataegus plants are well known, being a positive powerful inotropic agent. Its action mechanism is exactly the same as that of the rest of groups of inotropes, such as those derived from the digital version.
There are numberless clinical assays published demonstrating also an increase in the refractory period, a vasodilatating effect and an increase of coronary blood flow, which has led to it being commercialised in some countries of our setting such as in Germany for its indications in cardiac insufficiency, coronary insufficiency and bradycardia.
Its consumption is not free of side effects, although these are not severe if consumed in monotherapy. It presents a large number of drug interactions, and thus, its use is not recommended in patients taking diuretics, drugs for high blood pressure, or digitalic drugs.

Keywords:

Crataegus; monogyna; Medicinal plants; pharmacology; cardiac insufficiency; coronary insufficiencybradycardia

Versión en Español

Título:

Crataegus (espino blanco)